Grenfell Tower fire: National recognition for boxing club which refused to throw in the towel

Dale Youth Amateur Boxing Club was named Team of the Year at the awards ceremony on Wednesday (November 22).

The club, which has produced a string of champions including George Groves and James DeGale, has since found a temporary home at the Low Wood Court car park in Westbourne Park Road, in Notting Hill.

Known as the Factory of Champions, it has been running for 85 years and was based in Grenfell Tower for about 20 years, until the night of the fire on June 14.

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Pride of Sports says their determination to continue is symbolic of the area’s desire to battle back.

Mick Delaney, the trainer who runs Dale Youth, was handed the award by legendary fighter Barry McGuigan, and summoned up the club’s fabled spirit of determination.

Former World Champion boxer Barry McGuigan with trainer Mick Delaney and members of the boxing club (Image: Daily Mirror)

He said: “As long as we’ve got a ring, some bags and some trainers, Dale Youth will be okay.”

Pride of Sport Awards judges said: “The way people came together after the Grenfell fire was inspirational, and showed that incredible human spirit we all share.

Mick Delaney speaks to young boxers at the club, which was located in Grenfell Tower but has now relocated (Image: Daily Mirror)

“Dale Youth Boxing Club was at the heart of the community before the fire, and its determination to still be there after the fire is something that deserves to be honoured.”

Mr Delaney added: “We intend to help start building the lives of young people again through our club and sport to show the spirit and commitment that exists locally and continue to be a focus for pride in the local community and continue to turn out generations of good citizens.”